15 Ways Dogs Make Humans Healthier

Your dog is your best friend. We know! Did you know your dog may be able to keep your doctor away better than any apple? Okay, maybe not quite as well, but it’s pretty close. There are some pretty major physiological and psychological benefits you get just by being a dog parent.

How would you react if I told you that dog owners tend to have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels even though they’re more likely to be drinkers and have more of a penchant for fast food?

Pretty cool, right?

And it’s not just speculation. There’s good, hard science to back it up. Below, you can see a run-down of some of the awesome ways your pup contributes to your health.